Valproic acid has been available for the treatment of partial and generalized seizures since 1978. Sodium divalproex is metabolized in the gut to valproic acid. Depakote and Depakote-ER (extended release)are among the dosage forms of sodium divalproex. Depakote is an enteric coated tablet that is designed to dissolve in the more alkaline milieu of the small intestine rather than the more acidic milieu of the stomach. This helps the drug to bypass the stomach and reduces gastrointestinal distress. Once the enteric coating dissolves, the sodium divalproex is metabolized to valproic acid and rapidly absorbed. Depakote is administered twice a day. Depakote-ER is a controlled release drug delivery system designed to release drug over a 22 hour period which allows for once a day dosing. The efficacy and tolerability of Depakote-ER has not been described in elderly patients with epilepsy.